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Nearly 500 Marijuana Plants Discovered During Stoneham Fire

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STONEHAM (CBS) – Stoneham police say they are investigating an apparent marijuana growing operation that was discovered after a home caught fire.

The fire broke out just before 7 a.m. on the second floor of 10 Hersham Street.

One firefighter sustained minor injuries, but the flames were quickly knocked down.

While on scene, responding firefighters discovered what police describe as a “sizable marijuana plant growing operation” with close to 500 marijuana plants growing in the apartment. Based on police calculations, police seized plants that, through their lifespan, could produce upwards of 960 pounds of marijuana buds, with an approximate street value of $2 million.

No one was home at the time. No arrests have been made but police say they are seeking a 35-year-old man as a person of interest. The man is believed to be a resident of the home. His name has not been released.

A joint investigation is underway by the Stoneham Police department, the Stoneham Fire Investigation Unit, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration Clandestine Lab Team.